Photography Competition Invites to Capture the Best Moments of Life in Kainuu
The photography competition is open to all photographers – from amateurs to professionals and occasional photographers. The competition period runs from 9 June to 15 August 2026.
The Kainuu in all its diversity project, co-funded by the European Union, and Kajaani University of Applied Sciences are jointly organising the photography competition, which launches on Tuesday, 9 June 2026. The competition seeks moments where everyday life, work, and leisure in Kainuu are shown at their best.
– Nature and landscapes are a big part of Kainuu’s identity, but this competition is not just about scenic photos – we are looking for images that show meaningful work or moments when leisure feels especially enjoyable. Of course, Kainuu’s nature and landscapes can provide the setting and background for such photos, says Project Specialist Marjo Remes from Kajaani University of Applied Sciences.
Photos must be taken in Kainuu
The aim of the competition is to encourage residents and visitors to reflect on and highlight what makes Kainuu an especially great place to live both in everyday life and during celebrations.
– We hope to receive as many different perspectives from across Kainuu as possible. Images that show authentic life as people experience it, Remes says.
The competition has two categories: Work and Everyday Life in Kainuu and Leisure and Celebrations in Kainuu. Each photographer may submit up to three photos per category. The main prize in each category is €500, and honorary mentions will also be awarded.
– The competition is open to everyone, not just residents of Kainuu, but the photos must be taken in Kainuu, Remes adds.
Photographers can enter the competition by submitting their photos via email. The deadline for submissions is Saturday, 15 August 2026, and the winners will be announced in September. Kajaanin Kamerakerho (The Kajaani Camera Club) has acted as an expert in drafting the competition rules.
More information and detailed participation instructions can be found on the Kainuu in all its diversity project website.
Further information:
Project Specialist Marjo Remes, Kajaani University of Applied Sciences, marjo.remes@kamk.fi, tel. +358 40 484 3817